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Tuesday, 16 February 2016

Uganda: Vote wisely, remain peaceful

As the people of Uganda go to the polls this Thursday 18th February
2016 we have heard a lot from different political candidates at presidential
and parliamentary levels. At presidential level there are eight candidates.

But I think these three key contenders have reduced the presidential contest into a three-horse race. Presidential candidate Amama Mbabazi says it’s
time for Uganda to go forward; so vote for change and for a peaceful transition.

Mbabazi campaigning in Mukono

Yoweri Museveni, who is
the incumbent, says lots of things have been achieved in the last 30 years like
peace, stability and increased kilometres of paved roads, so vote for steady progress
to achieve even more.

Museveni campaigns in Zombo

Yet Kizza Besigye, another candidate, says forget the story
about going forward and steady progress because as a Ugandan you are powerless.
Your voice as a citizen is not listened to by those in public offices. So you got to first reclaim your
rights, assert yourselves to the leaders. Besigye says, after asserting yourselves as the citizens, only then can you talk of developing a
Uganda that works for Ugandans. He offers to lead this liberation and promises
that after winning every Ugandan will walk with their heads high; "walk with swagger
(‘swaga’)".

Besigye campaigns in Rukungiri

Hey, other presidential candidates like Benon Biraro, Abed Bwanika
too have fine messages for the Ugandan voters. Therefore you are spoilt for
choice.

Now the ball is in your hands. Remember your vote is your voice. Use it wisely. Some people have been
approached with gifts like sugar, salt, soap and bits of money or petty cash;
please know that your vote is not for sale. Vote for leaders who will work for
you.

Most important of all cast your vote in peace. Be peaceful,
tolerant and respectful. Let the election not divide us. We are all Ugandans.
Uganda continues even after elections. Peace.